Travel insurance is designed to protect you and your family in case something goes wrong whilst you are travelling. For example, you could be taken ill or have an accident, you could have your bags or money stolen, or you could have to cancel your travel plans because of an injury or illness. Without travel insurance, the costs involved if anything happens could run into hundreds if not thousands of pounds.
It is essential that you get the most appropriate travel insurance, not just the cheapest. Typical things to consider when getting a travel insurance quote online or over the phone are:
- Is your trip just in the UK, are you travelling to Europe, or do you need a worldwide travel insurance policy?
- How long will you be travelling for?
- Will you be taking more than one holiday in the year? If you are then an annual travel insurance policy may be a better bet than a single trip travel insurance policy.
- Are you travelling alone or with your family? Would a family travel insurance policy be cheaper?
- Does your travel insurance quote include comprehensive medical and repatriation cover?
- Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions that could affect your insurance?
- Are you planning to take part in a hazardous sport such as skiing? If so, you may need to take out a specialist policy.
Always check the small print of your insurance policy carefully to see if there are any exclusions. These could include problems arising from a previous illness that you have not declared to the insurer, taking part in a dangerous sport, or an injury/death caused by an act of terrorism. If you are in any doubt, ask your insurer.
For extra travel safety information, see our Travel Tips page.
